The Guide to Command Terms for IB Maths

For students tackling IB Mathematics, it’s not just about formulas but a lot of the time it comes down to how well you answer the question based on what the IB examiners are looking for. One of the key tools to doing this is by understanding the command terms. These are specific words or phrases that appear in exam questions, instructing students on exactly what is expected in their responses.

What Are Command Terms?

Command terms are the verbs or instructions used in IB Maths questions to indicate what kind of response is required. They range from straightforward tasks like "state" or "write down" to more complex actions such as "explain" or "derive."

Each term has a distinct meaning, and IB examiners expect students to address these terms precisely in their answers. For example, "calculate" means to show all working leading to the final answer, while "describe" requires a written explanation of a mathematical concept or process.

For most IB subjects, your exams are worth ~80% of your mark. It is super important that students are famailr with them to maximise their scores in their exams

Check out our blog for a full breakdown of how the IB is graded

IB Maths Command Terms

Command Term	Description
Calculate	Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working.
Comment	Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation.
Compare	Give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Compare and contrast	Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Construct	Display information in a diagrammatic or logical form.
Contrast	Give an account of the differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Deduce	Reach a conclusion from the information given.
Demonstrate	Make clear by reasoning or evidence, illustrating with examples or practical application.
Describe	Give a detailed account.
Determine	Obtain the only possible answer.
Differentiate	Obtain the derivative of a function.
Distinguish	Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.
Draw	Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a pencil. A ruler (straight edge) should be used for straight lines. Diagrams should be drawn to scale. Graphs should have points correctly plotted (if appropriate) and joined in a straight line or smooth curve.
Estimate	Obtain an approximate value.
Explain	Give a detailed account including reasons or causes.
Find	Obtain an answer showing relevant stages in the working.
Hence	Use the preceding work to obtain the required result.
Hence or otherwise	It is suggested that the preceding work is used, but other methods could also receive credit.
Identify	Provide an answer from a number of possibilities.
Integrate	Obtain the integral of a function.
Interpret	Use knowledge and understanding to recognize trends and draw conclusions from given information.
Investigate	Observe, study, or make a detailed and systematic examination, in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.
Justify	Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion.
Label	Add labels to a diagram.
List	Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.
Plot	Mark the position of points on a diagram.
Predict	Give an expected result.
Prove	Use a sequence of logical steps to obtain the required result in a formal way.
Show	Give the steps in a calculation or derivation.
Show that	Obtain the required result (possibly using information given) without the formality of proof. "Show that" questions do not generally require the use of a calculator.
Sketch	Represent by means of a diagram or graph (labelled as appropriate). The sketch should give a general idea of the required shape or relationship, and should include relevant features.
Solve	Obtain the answer(s) using algebraic and/or numerical and/or graphical methods.
State	Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation.
Suggest	Propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer.
Verify	Provide evidence that validates the result.
Write down	Obtain the answer(s), usually by extracting information. Little or no calculation is required. Working does not need to be shown.

Why Are Command Terms Important?

Clarity of Expectations: Command terms make it clear what the question demands. Ignoring them or misinterpreting them can lead to incomplete or incorrect answers, even if your mathematical reasoning is sound.‍
Efficient Time Management: By identifying the command term early, you can tailor your response to match the expected level of detail and avoid wasting time on unnecessary elaboration.‍
Maximizing Marks: IB examiners grade answers according to the question's specific requirements. Responding correctly to command terms ensures you address all the criteria needed for full marks.

Study and Exam Tips for IB Maths

Mastering command terms is just one part of excelling in IB Maths. Here are additional tips to ensure you're fully prepared:

Practice Past Papers:
- Familiarise yourself with how command terms are used in IB exams by practicing past papers. Pay attention to how questions are phrased and the corresponding mark schemes.

After interviewing over 500 IB tutors, one piece of advice stood out above the rest: the best way to prepare for IB exams is by practicing past papers

Create a Command Term Glossary:
- Write down all command terms and their definitions in a single document or flashcards. Review these regularly to reinforce your understanding.

Get The Complete List of All IB Command Terms

Do you want to get a 7? Understanding all the IB command terms are critical to doing well in the IB exams

Understand the Mark Schemes:
- Examine how marks are allocated for each type of question. This will help you grasp the level of detail and steps required for each command term.
Show Your Working:
- Even if a question seems straightforward, always show your calculations and reasoning. This is especially important for terms like "justify" or "explain."
Time Your Practice:
- In timed practice exams, train yourself to quickly identify the command term and adapt your response accordingly. This will help you allocate your time wisely during the actual exam.
Ask for Feedback:
- When solving problems, ask your teacher or tutor to critique whether your response aligns with the command term. This feedback will fine-tune your answering technique.

Understanding command terms can be super helpful to succeed in IB Maths. These terms not only guide your answers but also ensure you focus on what examiners are looking for. However this is just one piece of the puzzle. Combine this with consistent practice and a strong grasp of mathematical concepts, and you'll be well on your way to achieving top marks in IB Maths.